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Hard to Love #3
Bulldozer
What happens when a single mother is forced to live with a grumpy, ailing football star? The smolder turns red hot of course.
Amanda Shaw has pulled it together. It’s taken a couple of years, a boatload of hard work, and a ton of self-discipline, but she finally has her problems in a headlock. Her yoga studio in the city has become so successful she’s opening one near the beach, and her relationship with her ten year old son is improving every day. The last thing she needs is a monkey wrench thrown into her smoothly running life.
Grant Hendricks is one big monkey wrench. The four time Defensive Player of the Year, three time NFL sack leader, and all around football god has officially hit rock bottom. A devastating back injury means he may have to retire and that scares him more than doctors telling him the next hit could leave him paralyzed. All he needs is a quiet place to think and his teammate’s beach house sounds like just the place. Problem is, the woman already living there.
You know the drill, folks. This book is chock full of naughty words and steamy moments. Not for delicate sensibilities and anyone under 18.
Amanda Shaw has pulled it together. It’s taken a couple of years, a boatload of hard work, and a ton of self-discipline, but she finally has her problems in a headlock. Her yoga studio in the city has become so successful she’s opening one near the beach, and her relationship with her ten year old son is improving every day. The last thing she needs is a monkey wrench thrown into her smoothly running life.
Grant Hendricks is one big monkey wrench. The four time Defensive Player of the Year, three time NFL sack leader, and all around football god has officially hit rock bottom. A devastating back injury means he may have to retire and that scares him more than doctors telling him the next hit could leave him paralyzed. All he needs is a quiet place to think and his teammate’s beach house sounds like just the place. Problem is, the woman already living there.
You know the drill, folks. This book is chock full of naughty words and steamy moments. Not for delicate sensibilities and anyone under 18.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2018
About the author
P. Dangelico
21 books3,600 followers"If it sounds like writing, I rewrite it.” ― Elmore Leonard
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USA Today Bestselling author P. Dangelico loves romance in all forms, furry creatures, the NY Jets (although she’s reconsidering after this season), and to while away the day at the barn (apparently she does her best thinking shoveling horse poop). What she’s not enamored with is referring to herself in the third person and social media. Although she was born in Milan Italy, she’s been Jersey Strong since she turned six.
Visit my website:
http://www.pdangelico.com
Get to know me at my Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/p.dangelico/
Join my Facebook reading Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/PDang...
Visit my Instagram account:
https://www.instagram.com/pdangelicoa...
Get free goodies and sale alerts by joining my Mailing List: https://www.pdangelico.com/contact
Or find me on Goodreads.
USA Today Bestselling author P. Dangelico loves romance in all forms, furry creatures, the NY Jets (although she’s reconsidering after this season), and to while away the day at the barn (apparently she does her best thinking shoveling horse poop). What she’s not enamored with is referring to herself in the third person and social media. Although she was born in Milan Italy, she’s been Jersey Strong since she turned six.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 574 reviews
November 12, 2018
Live Amazon : https://amzn.to/2OfMExp
❤5 amazing stars ❤
I don't know where to start my review with this one, it's simply amazing!P. Dangelico delivers a heartwarming , sweet story with the great amount of humor and a slow burn romance that will keep your interest till the end!
"Nudity is obviously a lifestyle choice for him.There isn't even a faded tan line cutting across his cheeks."
I fall in love with Amanda and Grant!Amanda is a strong heroine, I liked her she is so realistic.She is protective and she cares a lot for Sam.She tries to be better for him.Grant is exactly what Camilla said!
"He's usually a big teddy bear."
The first time Camilla and Grant met was hilarious.I laughed so much!
"He reminds me of that blond guy in Sex in the City"
"You know the one- the cute guy Samantha dates.What's his name?"
"Smith Jarrod.Only bigger."
"Who cares. He's a douchebag ."
I love the build up, it's slow and felt so realistic.I like the slow burn, there was some intense moments between them.Also the secondary characters brought a lot to the story.
Overall, it was an amazing story.I can't choose which boy is my favorite in this series! Each one have something to give you! But I can say Grant is so salon worthy!!
❤5 amazing stars ❤
I don't know where to start my review with this one, it's simply amazing!P. Dangelico delivers a heartwarming , sweet story with the great amount of humor and a slow burn romance that will keep your interest till the end!
"Nudity is obviously a lifestyle choice for him.There isn't even a faded tan line cutting across his cheeks."
I fall in love with Amanda and Grant!Amanda is a strong heroine, I liked her she is so realistic.She is protective and she cares a lot for Sam.She tries to be better for him.Grant is exactly what Camilla said!
"He's usually a big teddy bear."
The first time Camilla and Grant met was hilarious.I laughed so much!
"He reminds me of that blond guy in Sex in the City"
"You know the one- the cute guy Samantha dates.What's his name?"
"Smith Jarrod.Only bigger."
"Who cares. He's a douchebag ."
I love the build up, it's slow and felt so realistic.I like the slow burn, there was some intense moments between them.Also the secondary characters brought a lot to the story.
Overall, it was an amazing story.I can't choose which boy is my favorite in this series! Each one have something to give you! But I can say Grant is so salon worthy!!
December 17, 2018
4.5 stars!!
Bulldozer is my first book by P. Dangelico but it certainly won’t be my last! This book was wonderful. It gave me all the happy feels and I’m always looking for more authors that can do slow burn well. This author definitely can!
Amanda Shaw and her son Sam are staying at her brother’s house for the summer. Her brother, a former NFL player, has a nice place where she can work and get some time with her kid. It’s all planned out. Until she shows up and finds Grant there. Grant is her brother’s former teammate who was injured. Grant is also naked. It’s an interesting start for these two. I loved their back and forth and banter. It made me laugh out loud more than once.
Deep down, Grant is a real sweetheart. He starts to grow on Amanda and is amazing with her son. Amanda hasn’t had the easiest life but she’s a great mom and is turning it around. She doesn’t trust easy, and she’s a tough nut to crack, but Grant just may be the guy that can do it.
Grant was legit my perfect hero. Sure he was a bit of jerk at the start, but not in a bad way. But OMG he more than made up for it later. I adored him so much! I liked Amanda, too, but she had moments, towards the end especially, that even though I understood to an extent, frustrated me beyond belief. Both of these two deserved a love like this so much and I rooted for them both so hard! Together they were so swoony! I mean, just read this quote *sigh*
Bulldozer is my first book by P. Dangelico but it certainly won’t be my last! This book was wonderful. It gave me all the happy feels and I’m always looking for more authors that can do slow burn well. This author definitely can!
Amanda Shaw and her son Sam are staying at her brother’s house for the summer. Her brother, a former NFL player, has a nice place where she can work and get some time with her kid. It’s all planned out. Until she shows up and finds Grant there. Grant is her brother’s former teammate who was injured. Grant is also naked. It’s an interesting start for these two. I loved their back and forth and banter. It made me laugh out loud more than once.
Despite the way this man has turned my life upside down and inside out, a silly smile stretches across my face. Time to face the undeniable truth that Grant Hendricks is really hard to hate.
Deep down, Grant is a real sweetheart. He starts to grow on Amanda and is amazing with her son. Amanda hasn’t had the easiest life but she’s a great mom and is turning it around. She doesn’t trust easy, and she’s a tough nut to crack, but Grant just may be the guy that can do it.
Grant was legit my perfect hero. Sure he was a bit of jerk at the start, but not in a bad way. But OMG he more than made up for it later. I adored him so much! I liked Amanda, too, but she had moments, towards the end especially, that even though I understood to an extent, frustrated me beyond belief. Both of these two deserved a love like this so much and I rooted for them both so hard! Together they were so swoony! I mean, just read this quote *sigh*
“You’re everything a girl could wish for.”This book was most definitely a win for me. I loved the slow burn romance, the enemies to friends to lovers storyline and I always love when one of the MC’s is a single parent. It was a fantastic read. I can’t wait to read more of the books from Dangelico’s ‘Hard to Love’ series, but I’ve got to say- these characters were so easy for me to love!! If you’re looking for a swoon-worthy here and a sweet, sexy, emotional, and laugh out loud funny romance, check this book out! You won’t be disappointed.
“Did you wish for me?” He looks a little lost and a lot anxious. How can he not know his value? How can he not know he’s the best thing since the invention of fire, and Krispy Kreme donuts and drive-thru Starbucks and e-readers? How can he not know that I love him completely and entirely? I place a chaste kiss on his lips. “No. But only because I stopped believing men as good as you existed.”
“This is the best summer I’ve ever had,” he says so softly it’s barely above a whisper. “You’re the best time I’ve ever had.”
February 5, 2019
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November 11, 2018
I've been dying to read this author, and I finally did..... Kicking myself it wasn't sooner!!!!
This is a bulldozer of a story. It totally rolls over you and you slowly burn burn burn until the end when finally, finally your smile will light up the entire room.
And the cover to this book, ummm hello hotness
I totally enjoyed this story. Amanda and Grant are such complex characters that worm their way into your heart. They love hard, they love with their whole hearts and it isn’t love that is so freely handed out. Oh heck no. It’s guarded, it’s sheltered, it’s love that is waiting for exactly the right person. To go on the journey with these two characters, along with Sam and Roxy, was simply breathtaking at times. I was swept away with this story, couldn’t wait to get to the end to finally put out the burning in my heart.
Hands down a book I recommend to you romance readers that love a good frenemies to lovers book with a super sweet HEA.
This is a bulldozer of a story. It totally rolls over you and you slowly burn burn burn until the end when finally, finally your smile will light up the entire room.
And the cover to this book, ummm hello hotness
I totally enjoyed this story. Amanda and Grant are such complex characters that worm their way into your heart. They love hard, they love with their whole hearts and it isn’t love that is so freely handed out. Oh heck no. It’s guarded, it’s sheltered, it’s love that is waiting for exactly the right person. To go on the journey with these two characters, along with Sam and Roxy, was simply breathtaking at times. I was swept away with this story, couldn’t wait to get to the end to finally put out the burning in my heart.
Hands down a book I recommend to you romance readers that love a good frenemies to lovers book with a super sweet HEA.
August 2, 2020
4.5 Stars
One for the heroine, who I grew to love for her strength, warmth and humour.
One for the nude, sexy giant with a heart bigger than his body. No, seriously, how on earth does a heart this big fit into a human body?
*drools*
One for Sam, such a sweetheart.
And one for the story, which, let's be honest, I read gazillion times in the past. But the author managed to put it together in such a way it was still awesome and refreshing.
Oh, and half a star more for my Roxy...
#pitbulllover #mansbestfriend #ilovedogs #stopcruelty
Confession:
I had no expectations whatsoever before I started this book. No, I did have expectations. I was about 80% sure I would DNF it. Just like it happened with dozens of romance books before this one.
I've become a very difficult reader to please. So difficult that I stopped reading plain romance a few months ago. Too shallow, too repetitive, too eye-roll inducing...
I hope I'm cured of this horrible reader's disease now. If not, at least now I know P. Dangelico is an author to go to when I'm in a mood for fun romance.
One for the heroine, who I grew to love for her strength, warmth and humour.
One for the nude, sexy giant with a heart bigger than his body. No, seriously, how on earth does a heart this big fit into a human body?
*drools*
One for Sam, such a sweetheart.
And one for the story, which, let's be honest, I read gazillion times in the past. But the author managed to put it together in such a way it was still awesome and refreshing.
Oh, and half a star more for my Roxy...
#pitbulllover #mansbestfriend #ilovedogs #stopcruelty
Confession:
I had no expectations whatsoever before I started this book. No, I did have expectations. I was about 80% sure I would DNF it. Just like it happened with dozens of romance books before this one.
I've become a very difficult reader to please. So difficult that I stopped reading plain romance a few months ago. Too shallow, too repetitive, too eye-roll inducing...
I hope I'm cured of this horrible reader's disease now. If not, at least now I know P. Dangelico is an author to go to when I'm in a mood for fun romance.
November 12, 2018
It's rare that I don't have anything to say about a book, good or bad but this was just so fabulous that I can't find the words.
This has everything you could ever want in a P. Dangelico novel, a cute kid called Sam, a daft dog called Roxy a former model, former alcoholic, single mom called Amanda and a huge, beautiful, grumpy, permanently naked, injured football player called Grant.
Amanda and her best friend own a yoga studio in New York which is a raging success with the wealthy elite, they want to capitalise on their success by opening a second studio in the Hamptons during the summer, when all their customers move out to their summer homes. Amanda and Sam have moved into her big brother Calvin's (from Wrecking Ball) home in the Hamptons while she supervises the construction work and opens the studio. What Amanda doesn't know is that Cal has let his team mate Grant Hendricks stay at his home in the Hamptons while he recovers from spinal surgery. Sharing a 10 bedroom house shouldn't be a problem, right? If only Grant could remember to wear clothes - Amanda reckons she's seem more of his body than anyone other than,maybe, his proctologist and she doesn't want her 10 year old son to be exposed (pun intended) to random male nudity, even if it is one of the most luscious bodies she has ever seen.
This had everything you could ever want from a romance, it's funny, it's sweet, it's full of sexy guys (well one incredibly sexy guy - so sexy there's no room for any more), it has a cute kid and a cute dog, there's action, drama and a little bit of angst. I loved it.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
This has everything you could ever want in a P. Dangelico novel, a cute kid called Sam, a daft dog called Roxy a former model, former alcoholic, single mom called Amanda and a huge, beautiful, grumpy, permanently naked, injured football player called Grant.
Amanda and her best friend own a yoga studio in New York which is a raging success with the wealthy elite, they want to capitalise on their success by opening a second studio in the Hamptons during the summer, when all their customers move out to their summer homes. Amanda and Sam have moved into her big brother Calvin's (from Wrecking Ball) home in the Hamptons while she supervises the construction work and opens the studio. What Amanda doesn't know is that Cal has let his team mate Grant Hendricks stay at his home in the Hamptons while he recovers from spinal surgery. Sharing a 10 bedroom house shouldn't be a problem, right? If only Grant could remember to wear clothes - Amanda reckons she's seem more of his body than anyone other than,maybe, his proctologist and she doesn't want her 10 year old son to be exposed (pun intended) to random male nudity, even if it is one of the most luscious bodies she has ever seen.
This had everything you could ever want from a romance, it's funny, it's sweet, it's full of sexy guys (well one incredibly sexy guy - so sexy there's no room for any more), it has a cute kid and a cute dog, there's action, drama and a little bit of angst. I loved it.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
November 1, 2018
I’ve fallen in love all over again with P. Dangelico and her writing. She has a knack for brooding and grumpy men and let me tell ya all that Grant is just that. To begin with. Amanda slowly strips of his armor with her good heart and spunky personality and reveals that Grant also embodies a heart. He’s an amazing and gentle soul with so much heart and goodness but he doubts himself because of his rough childhood.
Amanda and her son Sam was introduced in Wrecking Ball and it was good to be back with the Shaw family. Amanda is a fabulous heroine. She’s made mistakes in the past in particular with her son and now she’s trying to rectify that.
It doesn’t start of the best way thanks to Grant. Their first meeting is quite memorable. The humor is right up my alley. The author knows the right balance between awkward and hilarious. So many awesome quotes and laugh out loud scenes. Grant wooed me properly despite his grumpy ass. Man, he’s got a way with words and how he chose to show it melted my heart.
Bulldozer is a slow burn but what wonderful slow burn was because I was constantly intrigued and invested in Amanda and Grant. What started as enemies slowly and beautifully evolved to friendship and then more. At the perfect pace.
Calvin and Camilla appears and of course I was smiling like crazy. Cal still a man of few words but oh so infatuated with his woman. They’re the perfect support for Amanda and shows up no matter what. What can I say? Bulldozer bulldozed into my heart as did a certain dog named Roxy.
4 Klutzy Knight Stars
I received an ARC
Amanda and her son Sam was introduced in Wrecking Ball and it was good to be back with the Shaw family. Amanda is a fabulous heroine. She’s made mistakes in the past in particular with her son and now she’s trying to rectify that.
It doesn’t start of the best way thanks to Grant. Their first meeting is quite memorable. The humor is right up my alley. The author knows the right balance between awkward and hilarious. So many awesome quotes and laugh out loud scenes. Grant wooed me properly despite his grumpy ass. Man, he’s got a way with words and how he chose to show it melted my heart.
Bulldozer is a slow burn but what wonderful slow burn was because I was constantly intrigued and invested in Amanda and Grant. What started as enemies slowly and beautifully evolved to friendship and then more. At the perfect pace.
Calvin and Camilla appears and of course I was smiling like crazy. Cal still a man of few words but oh so infatuated with his woman. They’re the perfect support for Amanda and shows up no matter what. What can I say? Bulldozer bulldozed into my heart as did a certain dog named Roxy.
4 Klutzy Knight Stars
I received an ARC
October 29, 2018
P. Dangelico had me at “grumpy, ailing football star…”
I mean, it is completely out of character for me to pick up the third book in a series by an author I’ve never read before. I couldn’t resist that blurb, though. And, if you’ve been paying attention, you know that football romance is my kryptonite. If I’m ever going to take a chance? It’s going to be on a football playing hero. Extra points for being surly and wounded.
So, I took the chance.
And?
It was so good! GAHH!
So, yes – this is the third book in a series, but I had no problem jumping right in and Ms. Dangelico had no problem hooking me immediately, grabbing hold of my heart and not letting go until the very last page. This delicious slow burn was snappy and smart and wonderfully emotional. Grant and Amanda were all charged chemistry and compelling dialogue. I adored her acerbic wit, and his soft underbelly under all that prickly outer shell. Add in a precocious ten year old and an adorable rescue dog and this thing was basically the whole package for me. I was completely smitten.
This book was such a happy surprise for me. I was glued to the pages – giggling, sniffling, and swooning like crazy. As far as sports romances go? Bulldozer was tops – and I will absolutely be back for more from this author! ~ Shelly, 4.5 Stars
I mean, it is completely out of character for me to pick up the third book in a series by an author I’ve never read before. I couldn’t resist that blurb, though. And, if you’ve been paying attention, you know that football romance is my kryptonite. If I’m ever going to take a chance? It’s going to be on a football playing hero. Extra points for being surly and wounded.
So, I took the chance.
And?
It was so good! GAHH!
So, yes – this is the third book in a series, but I had no problem jumping right in and Ms. Dangelico had no problem hooking me immediately, grabbing hold of my heart and not letting go until the very last page. This delicious slow burn was snappy and smart and wonderfully emotional. Grant and Amanda were all charged chemistry and compelling dialogue. I adored her acerbic wit, and his soft underbelly under all that prickly outer shell. Add in a precocious ten year old and an adorable rescue dog and this thing was basically the whole package for me. I was completely smitten.
This book was such a happy surprise for me. I was glued to the pages – giggling, sniffling, and swooning like crazy. As far as sports romances go? Bulldozer was tops – and I will absolutely be back for more from this author! ~ Shelly, 4.5 Stars
March 10, 2021
5 Everything You Could Want Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free
I first fell Hard for P. Dangelico when I read Wrecking Ball (Hard to Love.#1) in January 2017. It was my 3rd review of the year and it knocked me out. Then she gave us Sledgehammer (Hard to Love, #2) And now we are gifted, yes, I say gifted with Bulldozer (Hard to Love #3).
This book had EVERYTHING you could want with a slow burn. I mean, look at that cover for Heaven's Sake. Picture That roaming around in the Altogether! Know there is strong character development for both people and child. Know you will lose sleep if you are still reading when the sun goes down. Know you will want to have your own Grant Hendricks 24/7. Know you will be thrilled to meet a woman as capable as Amanda Shaw.
And know for sure, this is storytelling at its best. The kind which stays with you. The kind where moments happen and you think about Real Life and how this tale has shown how to handle issues that have meaning for everyday people.
For Me, P. Dangelico and this series are on a roll. I am just thrilled I get to have a taste of it.
Wrecking Ball (Hard To Love #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Sledgehammer (Hard To Love #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Bulldozer (Hard To Love #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
How can P. Dangelico top any of the wonders she has produced...
Well, all I can say is...
From the first meeting of these characters...
We are off and running...
Running straight into a Sexy, Fun and Fast Paced Read...
Kinda like lovingly run over by a...
Bulldozer (Hard to Love #3)-November 12th 2018
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * * Spoiler Free
I first fell Hard for P. Dangelico when I read Wrecking Ball (Hard to Love.#1) in January 2017. It was my 3rd review of the year and it knocked me out. Then she gave us Sledgehammer (Hard to Love, #2) And now we are gifted, yes, I say gifted with Bulldozer (Hard to Love #3).
This book had EVERYTHING you could want with a slow burn. I mean, look at that cover for Heaven's Sake. Picture That roaming around in the Altogether! Know there is strong character development for both people and child. Know you will lose sleep if you are still reading when the sun goes down. Know you will want to have your own Grant Hendricks 24/7. Know you will be thrilled to meet a woman as capable as Amanda Shaw.
And know for sure, this is storytelling at its best. The kind which stays with you. The kind where moments happen and you think about Real Life and how this tale has shown how to handle issues that have meaning for everyday people.
For Me, P. Dangelico and this series are on a roll. I am just thrilled I get to have a taste of it.
Wrecking Ball (Hard To Love #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Sledgehammer (Hard To Love #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Bulldozer (Hard To Love #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
How can P. Dangelico top any of the wonders she has produced...
Well, all I can say is...
From the first meeting of these characters...
We are off and running...
Running straight into a Sexy, Fun and Fast Paced Read...
Kinda like lovingly run over by a...
Bulldozer (Hard to Love #3)-November 12th 2018
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
November 20, 2018
It's what you've come to expect from P. Dangelico. Some kind of misanderstanding at the beginning, friendship after the characters got to know each other, then love with the sweetness and angst that comes with it. It's a good formula if it played, let's say... naturally. For me, Nothing felt natural about this book. I felt no chemistry between the MCs, so, I skipped the sex scenes. Their other interactions too, didn't feel natural, the emotions were forced. like yeah, this passage needs emotions, let's throw some deep speach about fears and insecurities. Also, a few things didn't make sense. They didn't even have a decent conversation yet and he is telling her 'he trust her' and 'he would do anything for her', we need some character development to believe that. His rudeness at the beginning didn't make sense either. Nor her giving him an advise about his life when they just met. There's personal boundaries decent people should respect, even in fiction. Her reaction to a secret he was keeping made her sound so self-centered. It's not about you woman, it's about him. Where's your love if the first thing you thought about is yourself. His putting everything at stake, for a game he didn't even try enough to recover properly so he can come back to it, was also strange. Anyway, the book was ok. I can see that even with the issues I had and my lack of connection with the MCs.
November 12, 2018
“I’ve made mistakes, more than my share. But Grant? He’s the right to all my wrongs.”
Bulldozer is my second book by P. Dangelico and I am absolutely loving her writing and the characters she creates. I have to go back and read some of her back catalogue because if they are half as good as Bulldozer, then I know I am in for a treat. This story was just the perfect amount of fun, sexy feels and slow burning romance to keep me captivated throughout.
The first meeting between Amanda and Grant was probably one of the most memorable and hilarious first meetings I can recall reading in recent times. It was just written impeccably with the perfect combination of awkwardness and laugh out loud humor.
Amanda is such a sweetheart and cares a lot for her son Sam. She has made some mistakes in her life, but she owned up to them and is making an effort to better her life for her son. She has no idea what is install for her when she meets grumpy NFL star Grant Hendricks.
A career ending injury has wounded Grant deeper than anything else in his life. The thought of not playing football again scares him to death and as a result, has become super grumpy and has built up a massive metaphorical fortress to shield himself from the world. Little does he know Amanda is the one woman who can break down those walls he’s built up and reveal the beautiful man inside.
One of the things I loved most about Bulldozer was the slow build up and development of Amanda and Grant and the anticipation of their fiery relationship turning into something quite remarkable and intense.
I tend to love my enemies to lovers stories to be jam packed full of angst which adds to the anticipation and I love nothing more than the push and pull that comes along with this trope. Even though Bulldozer was low on the angst, I still enjoyed it all the same and highly recommend.
May 4, 2023
#1 Wrecking Ball — 3.25 stars
#2 Sledgehammer — 2.5 stars
#3 Bulldozer — 2.75 stars
girls, tell me if you dont agree:
even cavemen wear cloth to cover their bits. i cant remember any details about the story to name what else i liked and didnt like about this book. thats how much the Hs nakedness grated on my nerves. like dude, dont conceal but also dont reveal too much. im all for the naked positivity, but some parts should remain a mystery is all im sayin. 🖐
(Note: Originally Read as an Audiobook in November 2022, but Shelved on the “2018 Reading Challenge”)
#2 Sledgehammer — 2.5 stars
#3 Bulldozer — 2.75 stars
girls, tell me if you dont agree:
- sexy is the ripple and the V you see when hes shirtless and wears only sweatpants. 🤤
- sexy is the bulge and the 🤪ass globes🤪 you see when hes only in his boxer briefs.
- NOT sexy is him prancing around the house naked 24/7 like cavemen...
even cavemen wear cloth to cover their bits. i cant remember any details about the story to name what else i liked and didnt like about this book. thats how much the Hs nakedness grated on my nerves. like dude, dont conceal but also dont reveal too much. im all for the naked positivity, but some parts should remain a mystery is all im sayin. 🖐
(Note: Originally Read as an Audiobook in November 2022, but Shelved on the “2018 Reading Challenge”)
June 28, 2019
5 Stars
Amanda Shaw’s had a rough couple of years. Hell, make that a rough couple of decades. As the second oldest of eight and the only daughter to two alcoholics, from a very early age Mandy and her older brother Calvin (from Wrecking Ball fame) were tasked with making sure their younger brothers were taken care of, fed and clothed. You know, all the important stuff parents usually do for their children. The decision to leave home at the age of seventeen to model full time seemed like a no brainer, but fifteen years later, with an addiction kicked and a ten year old son to raise, Amanda finds herself working hard to establish herself as a business owner and as a mom. Who needs romance when you’re working your butt off just to stay afloat, amirite?
That moon is a badass bitch. It doesn’t think it’s not deserving. It doesn’t second-guess every decision it’s ever made. Mistakes? No sweat. It struts its stuff without a care, knowing its rightful place in the world. Must be nice. I wonder what that fucking feels like.
Grant Hendricks life is focused on one thing and one thing only: football. His past has taught him it’s safer for everyone if the star NFL defensive back uses his power for the good of his team rather than letting his aggressions get the best of him off the field. After a nasty injury leaves him unable to play and in need of a quiet place to recoup, Grant’s grateful for his teammate Calvin’s offer to use his beach house for as long as he needs. Better for everyone involved if Grants stays as far away as possible from the population at large.
When Grant’s quiet beach retreat suddenly and without warning also turns into Amanda’s only available summer housing option, it’s safe to say the shit does indeed hit the fan.
It’s my big reveal, moment of truth time, folks. As much as I was looking forward to reading Grant and Amanda’s story, I went into it with some lowered expectations. I’ve loved literally everything I’ve read from Ms. Dangelico, but after first being introduced to her in Wrecking Ball, I wasn’t sure I’d like Amanda’s character enough to read a book devoted to her. I’m so freaking glad I got over myself and dove headfirst into this book because Bulldozer ended up being my very favorite book by this author to date.
“All I’ve done since I was seven years old is football. I don’t know how to do anything else. I don’t know much about other stuff.”
And then he unleashes a toothy grin that takes up half his face. It’s like witnessing a miracle. Even the two chicks hanging on him looked stunned. He just cured cancer with that smile, stopped the ice caps from melting, and reunited R.E.M.
On first introduction, Grant came off as a bit of an unfeeling, uncaring prick. But the more Amanda and Grant spent time together, the more Grant…kept being a prick. Yes, the jerk gene runs deep with this one but as the story moves on, Grant’s insecurities start to make an appearance and we begin to see the damaged man beneath the brawn and attitude. Though Bulldozer is told first person via Amanda, absolutely no one is better at letting the reader in on the hero’s side things than P. Dangelico. Seriously, we never get Grant’s side of the story but I felt him falling harder for both Amanda and Sam with every page. His eventual sweetness and strength of character still has me swooning.
As for Mandy? I’m thrilled I gave her a chance to work her magic. What I first felt might be a self-centered and hard to like heroine turned into a strong in the very best way, single mom just trying to give her son and herself the life they both deserve. As always, the snarky humor and sheer awesomeness I’ve come to expect from every P. Dangelico book was front and center.
Bulldozer is the third book of the Hard to Love series but can most definitely be read as a standalone.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest, voluntary review
Amanda Shaw’s had a rough couple of years. Hell, make that a rough couple of decades. As the second oldest of eight and the only daughter to two alcoholics, from a very early age Mandy and her older brother Calvin (from Wrecking Ball fame) were tasked with making sure their younger brothers were taken care of, fed and clothed. You know, all the important stuff parents usually do for their children. The decision to leave home at the age of seventeen to model full time seemed like a no brainer, but fifteen years later, with an addiction kicked and a ten year old son to raise, Amanda finds herself working hard to establish herself as a business owner and as a mom. Who needs romance when you’re working your butt off just to stay afloat, amirite?
That moon is a badass bitch. It doesn’t think it’s not deserving. It doesn’t second-guess every decision it’s ever made. Mistakes? No sweat. It struts its stuff without a care, knowing its rightful place in the world. Must be nice. I wonder what that fucking feels like.
Grant Hendricks life is focused on one thing and one thing only: football. His past has taught him it’s safer for everyone if the star NFL defensive back uses his power for the good of his team rather than letting his aggressions get the best of him off the field. After a nasty injury leaves him unable to play and in need of a quiet place to recoup, Grant’s grateful for his teammate Calvin’s offer to use his beach house for as long as he needs. Better for everyone involved if Grants stays as far away as possible from the population at large.
When Grant’s quiet beach retreat suddenly and without warning also turns into Amanda’s only available summer housing option, it’s safe to say the shit does indeed hit the fan.
It’s my big reveal, moment of truth time, folks. As much as I was looking forward to reading Grant and Amanda’s story, I went into it with some lowered expectations. I’ve loved literally everything I’ve read from Ms. Dangelico, but after first being introduced to her in Wrecking Ball, I wasn’t sure I’d like Amanda’s character enough to read a book devoted to her. I’m so freaking glad I got over myself and dove headfirst into this book because Bulldozer ended up being my very favorite book by this author to date.
“All I’ve done since I was seven years old is football. I don’t know how to do anything else. I don’t know much about other stuff.”
And then he unleashes a toothy grin that takes up half his face. It’s like witnessing a miracle. Even the two chicks hanging on him looked stunned. He just cured cancer with that smile, stopped the ice caps from melting, and reunited R.E.M.
On first introduction, Grant came off as a bit of an unfeeling, uncaring prick. But the more Amanda and Grant spent time together, the more Grant…kept being a prick. Yes, the jerk gene runs deep with this one but as the story moves on, Grant’s insecurities start to make an appearance and we begin to see the damaged man beneath the brawn and attitude. Though Bulldozer is told first person via Amanda, absolutely no one is better at letting the reader in on the hero’s side things than P. Dangelico. Seriously, we never get Grant’s side of the story but I felt him falling harder for both Amanda and Sam with every page. His eventual sweetness and strength of character still has me swooning.
As for Mandy? I’m thrilled I gave her a chance to work her magic. What I first felt might be a self-centered and hard to like heroine turned into a strong in the very best way, single mom just trying to give her son and herself the life they both deserve. As always, the snarky humor and sheer awesomeness I’ve come to expect from every P. Dangelico book was front and center.
Bulldozer is the third book of the Hard to Love series but can most definitely be read as a standalone.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest, voluntary review
January 18, 2019
My initial reaction to the book:
Covergasm....
Does anyone know the name of the hottie on the cover?
The answer is in the comments section :))))))
*********************************************
My opinions after reading the book:
Some parts of this book were fun and sweet but there were too many problems for me to enjoy it more.
When the book begins, we see that the heroine comes to stay at her brother’s beach house with her 10-year-old son and finds out that she has to share the house with his teammate for a while. They will practically be roommates till the end of the summer. That was something she wasn’t informed about beforehand and as he has a tendency to walk around naked and he is all grumpy and mean, she is not happy about it at all.
***
The hero is too rude and mean towards her at the beginning of the book. He walks around bare-as*naked, not answering her questions, ignoring her all the time. He is just an unbearable as*!
When they met, there was one moment when he asked her if she didn’t remember him and she didn’t. And I thought he was pissed about it and there was some story behind it. However, it takes a long long time until we learn the answer to that question. The answer comes at the very end of the book when I have already lost my interest in it any more. Timing is everything, you know…
***
Whatever…
The biggest problem about this book for me was how bad an “enemies-to-lovers” story it was!
You don’t ever experience the build-up to the enemies-to-lovers. I mean there is no good banter when they are enemies, no sexual tension other than her thinking he has the biggest penis on the planet (Aren’t we sick of that yet?? Apparently not!) and there is definitely no good transition from hatred to love.
One moment, they seem to hate each other, then you turn the page over and she is lusting for him and she thinks he is a good guy that needs her affection.
Then, all of a sudden, after she yells at him about something, he feels sorry and he is all sweet and tender from then on. Oh, and of course, he is full-on protective of her.
Out of the blue, they develop a deep connection – I am sorry but I don’t believe it if I don’t feel it and I didn’t.
Again all of a sudden, he starts to tell her his secrets, saying he trusts her and that she is a good person.
Then, in the blink of an eye, they become lovers. No real angst, no juicy banter, no chemistry, no sexual tension, no heart-ache.
I felt like 10-20 pages of my book were missing. If I had a paperback, I would definitely check for missing pages to see if some fell into my handbag or something!
As I didn’t feel the transition of their feelings, I couldn’t relate to the characters. I was so bored that I thought if I should DNF it or not. But here I am, proudly saying I was able to finish it (Shh, between you and me, I might have skimmed and scanned some bits of it…)
*********************************************
In my opinion, this book fails to achieve its purpose. Some childish behavior from an adult is not enough to make it an “enemies-to-lovers” book and it was just that. Him walking around naked, her being pissed at it, him ignoring her comments/questions etc, her trying to communicate, him not answering her… And when she acts all crazy about it saying that it is enough and he is having a bad influence on her son, he suddenly understands his fault, changes all his bad behavior and transforms into this sweet guy. Well, that was boring and annoying at the same time!
(For a good "enemies-to-lovers" book, please refer to The Hating Game)
*********************************************
There are too many important issues in the book and because there are a lot of them, none of them are dealt with the delicacy they require.
Why so many, I wonder? Alcoholism, domestic violence, illness recovery, custody fight etc… Each of them can be the major issue in a book but here all of them are thrown into our way.
- There is an ex-boyfriend, the father of the heroine’s child, who decides to be in his son’s life. I wonder why the superficial drama he causes was in the book and I really don’t know what it served. He didn’t cause jealousy between the hero and the heroine, so why was he in the picture doing all that?
- The heroine is an alcoholic. A recovered one but an alcoholic, nonetheless. Well, neither the reasons of it nor how she tries to deal with it at present were explained in a satisfactory way, in my opinion. Again, it just felt like it was there to add some drama to her past and I was uncomfortable with how lightly it was dealt with.
- Also, there was the domestic abuse issue in the hero’s past but again it felt like a detail to make the hero look like a good-hearted guy, donating huge sums of money to foundations that help domestic violence victims, rather than adding depth to his character. I don’t know… Everything felt superficial to me in this book, I guess! And maybe, it’s me, not the book, I don’t know.
*********************************************
Writing & Safety:
1st person point of view (I don't like it in general, I prefer dual point of view).
No cheating. No OW/OM drama, really...
*********************************************
Recommendation:
Well, to be honest, the book has some really fun and sweet moments that will put a big smile on your face. The dog is a cutie-pie. (I hated the writer for writing an Epilogue so far into the future and killing the dog, though.)
All in all, it wasn’t an awful book – it was just not good enough for me. If you do not stop and think about all the details that make it a superficial book, then you may have your fun with it and then, forget about it.
Covergasm....
Does anyone know the name of the hottie on the cover?
The answer is in the comments section :))))))
*********************************************
My opinions after reading the book:
Some parts of this book were fun and sweet but there were too many problems for me to enjoy it more.
When the book begins, we see that the heroine comes to stay at her brother’s beach house with her 10-year-old son and finds out that she has to share the house with his teammate for a while. They will practically be roommates till the end of the summer. That was something she wasn’t informed about beforehand and as he has a tendency to walk around naked and he is all grumpy and mean, she is not happy about it at all.
***
The hero is too rude and mean towards her at the beginning of the book. He walks around bare-as*naked, not answering her questions, ignoring her all the time. He is just an unbearable as*!
When they met, there was one moment when he asked her if she didn’t remember him and she didn’t. And I thought he was pissed about it and there was some story behind it. However, it takes a long long time until we learn the answer to that question. The answer comes at the very end of the book when I have already lost my interest in it any more. Timing is everything, you know…
***
Whatever…
The biggest problem about this book for me was how bad an “enemies-to-lovers” story it was!
You don’t ever experience the build-up to the enemies-to-lovers. I mean there is no good banter when they are enemies, no sexual tension other than her thinking he has the biggest penis on the planet (Aren’t we sick of that yet?? Apparently not!) and there is definitely no good transition from hatred to love.
One moment, they seem to hate each other, then you turn the page over and she is lusting for him and she thinks he is a good guy that needs her affection.
Then, all of a sudden, after she yells at him about something, he feels sorry and he is all sweet and tender from then on. Oh, and of course, he is full-on protective of her.
Out of the blue, they develop a deep connection – I am sorry but I don’t believe it if I don’t feel it and I didn’t.
Again all of a sudden, he starts to tell her his secrets, saying he trusts her and that she is a good person.
Then, in the blink of an eye, they become lovers. No real angst, no juicy banter, no chemistry, no sexual tension, no heart-ache.
I felt like 10-20 pages of my book were missing. If I had a paperback, I would definitely check for missing pages to see if some fell into my handbag or something!
As I didn’t feel the transition of their feelings, I couldn’t relate to the characters. I was so bored that I thought if I should DNF it or not. But here I am, proudly saying I was able to finish it (Shh, between you and me, I might have skimmed and scanned some bits of it…)
*********************************************
In my opinion, this book fails to achieve its purpose. Some childish behavior from an adult is not enough to make it an “enemies-to-lovers” book and it was just that. Him walking around naked, her being pissed at it, him ignoring her comments/questions etc, her trying to communicate, him not answering her… And when she acts all crazy about it saying that it is enough and he is having a bad influence on her son, he suddenly understands his fault, changes all his bad behavior and transforms into this sweet guy. Well, that was boring and annoying at the same time!
(For a good "enemies-to-lovers" book, please refer to The Hating Game)
*********************************************
There are too many important issues in the book and because there are a lot of them, none of them are dealt with the delicacy they require.
Why so many, I wonder? Alcoholism, domestic violence, illness recovery, custody fight etc… Each of them can be the major issue in a book but here all of them are thrown into our way.
- There is an ex-boyfriend, the father of the heroine’s child, who decides to be in his son’s life. I wonder why the superficial drama he causes was in the book and I really don’t know what it served. He didn’t cause jealousy between the hero and the heroine, so why was he in the picture doing all that?
- The heroine is an alcoholic. A recovered one but an alcoholic, nonetheless. Well, neither the reasons of it nor how she tries to deal with it at present were explained in a satisfactory way, in my opinion. Again, it just felt like it was there to add some drama to her past and I was uncomfortable with how lightly it was dealt with.
- Also, there was the domestic abuse issue in the hero’s past but again it felt like a detail to make the hero look like a good-hearted guy, donating huge sums of money to foundations that help domestic violence victims, rather than adding depth to his character. I don’t know… Everything felt superficial to me in this book, I guess! And maybe, it’s me, not the book, I don’t know.
*********************************************
Writing & Safety:
1st person point of view (I don't like it in general, I prefer dual point of view).
No cheating. No OW/OM drama, really...
*********************************************
Recommendation:
Well, to be honest, the book has some really fun and sweet moments that will put a big smile on your face. The dog is a cutie-pie. (I hated the writer for writing an Epilogue so far into the future and killing the dog, though.)
All in all, it wasn’t an awful book – it was just not good enough for me. If you do not stop and think about all the details that make it a superficial book, then you may have your fun with it and then, forget about it.
November 30, 2018
4.5 ”You’re my one” Stars!
(ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley)
-Sometimes all it takes is someone that knows and loves you to shine a light on the truth, to make you see that you’re capable of more than you think you are.
-Love isn’t finite. There’s no measure to it. It stretches time and space, loops back around, and expands again. Real love, the selfless kind, transcends our own needs but doesn’t leave us poorer, with less, it enriches is in ways we can’t even quantify... beyond our wildest dreams.
Amanda Shaw is a single mom living in New York. She was the poster child for bad choices in her 20’s, and now all she wants to do is focus on her son and be a great mom. They are headed to her brother Cal’s beach house in the Hamptons for the summer while she gets her newest yoga studio up and running. She has everything planned out, and then she arrives at the house to find what she believes to be an intruder. There is a gorgeous mountain of a man she thinks is trespassing, but is actually her brother’s teammate.
Grant Hendricks is one of the most well known defensive players in the NFL. He plays for the NY team, the Titans, but he’s injured and facing possible retirement. He’s hit rock bottom and is wanting some time alone to think and get himself together out of the public eye. He’s recovering from surgery and his teammate is letting him stay at his beach house for as long as he needs to. Then unexpected guests arrive and ruin his peace and quiet.
Grant and Mandy quickly realize they are going to be roommates for the summer. They figure the house has enough space so hopefully they can just avoid each other, but that’s easier said than done. Even though the very large, big blond man in their house is ornery, he’s the sexiest guy Mandy has ever seen. The ill mannered giant looks like a Nordic God, but his sparkling personality could use some work. She needs to spend her time focusing on opening her studio on time, but with all the hot man on display she can’t seem to focus on anything but Grant. He’s become the shining star of all her filthy dreams. Then she begins to see a different side of him. There’s more to him than what’s on the surface. As a friendship forms they begin to both hunger for more. Their love/hate relationship transforms but they both have demons from their past to overcome. Mandy had long ago stopped believing men like Grant really existed, but could he be her happy ending?
-You know that ah-ha moment you get when two pieces of a jigsaw puzzle snap together? When you know you’ve finally aced something. That’s what kissing Grant feels like. I’ve made mistakes, more than my share. But Grant? He’s the right to all my wrongs.
-I don’t know what I did to deserve him- what stars got crossed for Life to lead me here- but I’m not gong to second guess it this time.
-“I want you,” I say breathless. “You’re all I want. I never let myself want anything. But I want you.”
-I know this man. I know the fabric his soul is made of.
-I never knew romantic love could feel like this. He’s essential to my joy. And so much more dangerous to my welfare than I had originally thought.
Bulldozer is book three in the Hard to Love series, and can be read as a stand-alone. This was my first book by P. Dangelico, and I absolutely love her writing, and can’t wait to read more of her books! This story was hilarious and I adored this sweet football star. His beautiful heart will completely slay you. He’s dreamy book boyfriend perfection!!! ❤️
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2PR8SKv
(ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley)
-Sometimes all it takes is someone that knows and loves you to shine a light on the truth, to make you see that you’re capable of more than you think you are.
-Love isn’t finite. There’s no measure to it. It stretches time and space, loops back around, and expands again. Real love, the selfless kind, transcends our own needs but doesn’t leave us poorer, with less, it enriches is in ways we can’t even quantify... beyond our wildest dreams.
Amanda Shaw is a single mom living in New York. She was the poster child for bad choices in her 20’s, and now all she wants to do is focus on her son and be a great mom. They are headed to her brother Cal’s beach house in the Hamptons for the summer while she gets her newest yoga studio up and running. She has everything planned out, and then she arrives at the house to find what she believes to be an intruder. There is a gorgeous mountain of a man she thinks is trespassing, but is actually her brother’s teammate.
Grant Hendricks is one of the most well known defensive players in the NFL. He plays for the NY team, the Titans, but he’s injured and facing possible retirement. He’s hit rock bottom and is wanting some time alone to think and get himself together out of the public eye. He’s recovering from surgery and his teammate is letting him stay at his beach house for as long as he needs to. Then unexpected guests arrive and ruin his peace and quiet.
Grant and Mandy quickly realize they are going to be roommates for the summer. They figure the house has enough space so hopefully they can just avoid each other, but that’s easier said than done. Even though the very large, big blond man in their house is ornery, he’s the sexiest guy Mandy has ever seen. The ill mannered giant looks like a Nordic God, but his sparkling personality could use some work. She needs to spend her time focusing on opening her studio on time, but with all the hot man on display she can’t seem to focus on anything but Grant. He’s become the shining star of all her filthy dreams. Then she begins to see a different side of him. There’s more to him than what’s on the surface. As a friendship forms they begin to both hunger for more. Their love/hate relationship transforms but they both have demons from their past to overcome. Mandy had long ago stopped believing men like Grant really existed, but could he be her happy ending?
-You know that ah-ha moment you get when two pieces of a jigsaw puzzle snap together? When you know you’ve finally aced something. That’s what kissing Grant feels like. I’ve made mistakes, more than my share. But Grant? He’s the right to all my wrongs.
-I don’t know what I did to deserve him- what stars got crossed for Life to lead me here- but I’m not gong to second guess it this time.
-“I want you,” I say breathless. “You’re all I want. I never let myself want anything. But I want you.”
-I know this man. I know the fabric his soul is made of.
-I never knew romantic love could feel like this. He’s essential to my joy. And so much more dangerous to my welfare than I had originally thought.
Bulldozer is book three in the Hard to Love series, and can be read as a stand-alone. This was my first book by P. Dangelico, and I absolutely love her writing, and can’t wait to read more of her books! This story was hilarious and I adored this sweet football star. His beautiful heart will completely slay you. He’s dreamy book boyfriend perfection!!! ❤️
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2PR8SKv
October 20, 2018
Oh my god this author...I am in love with her and one of her biggest fans. She writes the most amazing characters you guys...
Amanda was such a mom...the abundance of love, protectiveness, guilt, anxiety for her son. I loved her struggles...as a mom of a new 5 month old, i felt it. She was real.
Grant Hendricks was a conundrum...Amanda describes him as such in the book and I agree. But he was also the kindest and sexiest of men.
This slow burn love story had all the feels especially with Amanda’s son n dog involved. In the end when Grant reveals his secret, I literally swooned.
I cannot express how heartwarming this book was. I think I might need a couple of days for my emotions to settle.
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange of an honest review
Amanda was such a mom...the abundance of love, protectiveness, guilt, anxiety for her son. I loved her struggles...as a mom of a new 5 month old, i felt it. She was real.
Grant Hendricks was a conundrum...Amanda describes him as such in the book and I agree. But he was also the kindest and sexiest of men.
This slow burn love story had all the feels especially with Amanda’s son n dog involved. In the end when Grant reveals his secret, I literally swooned.
I cannot express how heartwarming this book was. I think I might need a couple of days for my emotions to settle.
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange of an honest review
November 15, 2018
4 Stars ⭐️
March 31, 2019
4.5 stars.
🏈🏈🏈🏈
Slow burn romance with some comedic elements and witty banter that had me all smiles. 😁
This one checked all my boxes✔
It was also nice to revisit Cal and Cam from book 1 in this "Hard to Love" series (another fabulous read).
Loved this heroine.❤
Amanda had so many amazing qualities and I felt so much respect for her. She really was a good mom as well as a truly decent human being.
Grant was simply delicious, he was a real sweetheart once you got to know the "real" man hiding behind the facade.
Another winner from the highly talented Ms. Dangelico. 👏
🏈🏈🏈🏈
Slow burn romance with some comedic elements and witty banter that had me all smiles. 😁
This one checked all my boxes✔
It was also nice to revisit Cal and Cam from book 1 in this "Hard to Love" series (another fabulous read).
Loved this heroine.❤
Amanda had so many amazing qualities and I felt so much respect for her. She really was a good mom as well as a truly decent human being.
Grant was simply delicious, he was a real sweetheart once you got to know the "real" man hiding behind the facade.
Another winner from the highly talented Ms. Dangelico. 👏
November 9, 2018
★★★★ 4 Stars ★★★★
A very uplifting and gratifying read, I enjoyed catching up with characters Sam and Amanda from a previous book, Wrecking Ball, where I first fell in love with author P Dangelico.
Ex-Alcoholic Amanda and her son Sam are off to spend the summer in the Hamptons, but an unexpected and naked roommate takes them by surprise. Grumpy Grant, an NFL giant who doesn't realise he is, in fact, a gentle giant, is the hero of our story who tries very hard to avoid the feelings Amanda brings out of him.
Both are incapable of accepting love, they don't feel like they deserve it - but it was lovely to watch the walls break down and see them finally accept that they were two broken people who had hearts of gold and lots of love to give each other.
This story felt very different from the rest of Dangelico's backlist, but I enjoyed it all the same. The lack of angst and drama was a welcome change, but I would like to see some of that back in force again in the future.
ARC gratefully received
A very uplifting and gratifying read, I enjoyed catching up with characters Sam and Amanda from a previous book, Wrecking Ball, where I first fell in love with author P Dangelico.
Ex-Alcoholic Amanda and her son Sam are off to spend the summer in the Hamptons, but an unexpected and naked roommate takes them by surprise. Grumpy Grant, an NFL giant who doesn't realise he is, in fact, a gentle giant, is the hero of our story who tries very hard to avoid the feelings Amanda brings out of him.
Both are incapable of accepting love, they don't feel like they deserve it - but it was lovely to watch the walls break down and see them finally accept that they were two broken people who had hearts of gold and lots of love to give each other.
This story felt very different from the rest of Dangelico's backlist, but I enjoyed it all the same. The lack of angst and drama was a welcome change, but I would like to see some of that back in force again in the future.
ARC gratefully received
January 16, 2019
I so loved this book so much. It was the funniest, enjoyable romance ever. The characters were very easy to get to know and fall for. Amanda and Grant’s banter from the beginning added to the sexual tension and felt like verbal foreplay between these two. Bulldozer was really cute! It's the kind of book you're reading and realize you've been smiling like an idiot the whole while.
My first P. Dangelico read, but certainly NOT my last!
In short:
Hero 4/5 | Heroine 5/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 5/5 | Writing Style 4/5 | Steam 4/5 | Romance 4/5 | Angst-Suspense 4/5 | Darkness 1/5 | Humor 4/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 4/5 | Mystery 0/5 | Twists 4/5 | Pacing Fast | Action 3/5
My first P. Dangelico read, but certainly NOT my last!
In short:
Hero 4/5 | Heroine 5/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 5/5 | Writing Style 4/5 | Steam 4/5 | Romance 4/5 | Angst-Suspense 4/5 | Darkness 1/5 | Humor 4/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 4/5 | Mystery 0/5 | Twists 4/5 | Pacing Fast | Action 3/5
January 16, 2019
“You take what you want now. That way, when the bad happens, you have the good to see you through it.”YES! Another winner by P. Dangelico! I loved Bulldozer, such a delicious slow burn it drove me crazy but I couldn’t get enough. I guess that’s the perfect mix.
Bulldozer is the story of Amanda, a 33 year old mother. We already met her and her son Sam in the first book of the series. She finally has her life together and is opening a yoga studio in the Hamptons. Therefore, they are temporarily staying at her brother’s beach house. What she doesn’t know is that her brother also allowed his former teammate Grant to stay there while he’s recovering from an injury. Their first encounter is quite memorable.
”The guy is a beast. He has the personality of an electro-shocked gorilla, hung like one, too––since you asked.”I really love P. Dangelico’s writing style. It’s so much fun but also heart-warming. I marked so many passages that I loved - some because I had to laugh out loud and some because they were just so beautiful.
”On the car ride to the restaurant, Steven and I had a riveting conversation on the weather. We both agreed it was going to be sunny with a chance of late showers tomorrow. We’re practically soul mates.“
'Sometimes all it takes is someone that knows and loves you to shine a light on the truth, to make you see that you’re capable of more than you think you are. I guess that’s what love is at its best.'And it was really great to ‘catch up’ with Sam. He’s such a sweetheart.
“Where’s sin? Is it near the beach?”If you’re into slow burn romances, I highly recommend this series. BTW, I just saw that there will be forth book, Steamroller. I wonder who it will be about. But let’s be honest: it doesn’t really matter, I will read it anyway, lol.
November 13, 2018
This was really good.
the "enemies to lovers" towards "friends to lover" while the main characters fight the initial assumptions of one another...
Not everything is how it appears at first sight...
boy, don't we know it...
So, the main heroine is in her thirties (I loved that) with a 10 year old kid (who is absolutely hilariously sweet) meets a broody, injured NHL linebacker on his route of recovery with some major issues in deciding whether to play or retire...the fact that they share her brother and his teammate's house is an enemy turf like no other...
and they really keep it going...
until, well, the chemistry prevails and the constant push and pull tips the final barrier of denial...
Definitely match made in hell. He's as good at the denial game as I am.
BUT then the real emotions come out to play and things aren't that easy any more...
You take what you want now. That way, when bad happens, you have the good to see you through.
*sigh*
what i want to emphisize is the witty humor through out the book...and let me show you just the little segment that made me piss my panties from laughter...
(the conversation is between the kid and his mom, while he's telling her his new discovery from a boy nextdoor)
Kid: Did you know that some people eat cats?
Mom: Did Jeremy tell you that?
Kid: He said that his dad's ex-girlfriend yelled at him because he doesn't eat pussy.
Mom: You are never ever going to play with Jeremy ever again.
Kid: But I like Jeremy.
Mom. Never again.
Those of you who loved The Wall of Winnipeg and Me by Mariana Zapata, will also appreciate this story. :)
April 17, 2020
4 Stars
“I walked into the kitchen to find him naked as a jaybird with the worrisome exception of the kiddie sunglasses he was wearing. Little girl glasses, Camilla. Little hearts. His ding-dong was hanging practically to his knees and he had little pink hearts over his eyes! Does this sound okay to you?”
Loved it!! Fun, slow burn, enemies to lovers romance.
Amanda moves with her son , on her brothers's beach house for the summer.When she arrives there shehas a huge surprise thought, and that is Grand Hendricks , who spends the summer there as well. They start on the wrong foot, so the first couple of weeks a war is going on between these two, which is hilarious.
Slowly , Grant makes friends with Mandy's son, Sam, and they become close, and start to onpen up to eachother.
"You know that ah-ha moment you get when two pieces of a jigsaw puzzle snap together? When you know you’ve finally aced something. That’s what kissing Grant feels like. I’ve made mistakes, more than my share. But Grant? He’s the right to all my wrongs."
In order to make it work,both have to work thru their problem and fight personal demons, so it takes them a little bit to get there, but the result is a sweet love story.
“I want you,” I say breathless. “You’re all I want. I never let myself want anything. But I want you.” He blinks, his gaze sharpening. “Baby––” He shakes his head. “You had me from the get-go. I was yours the minute you bulldozed your way into my life.”
“I walked into the kitchen to find him naked as a jaybird with the worrisome exception of the kiddie sunglasses he was wearing. Little girl glasses, Camilla. Little hearts. His ding-dong was hanging practically to his knees and he had little pink hearts over his eyes! Does this sound okay to you?”
Loved it!! Fun, slow burn, enemies to lovers romance.
Amanda moves with her son , on her brothers's beach house for the summer.When she arrives there shehas a huge surprise thought, and that is Grand Hendricks , who spends the summer there as well. They start on the wrong foot, so the first couple of weeks a war is going on between these two, which is hilarious.
Slowly , Grant makes friends with Mandy's son, Sam, and they become close, and start to onpen up to eachother.
"You know that ah-ha moment you get when two pieces of a jigsaw puzzle snap together? When you know you’ve finally aced something. That’s what kissing Grant feels like. I’ve made mistakes, more than my share. But Grant? He’s the right to all my wrongs."
In order to make it work,both have to work thru their problem and fight personal demons, so it takes them a little bit to get there, but the result is a sweet love story.
“I want you,” I say breathless. “You’re all I want. I never let myself want anything. But I want you.” He blinks, his gaze sharpening. “Baby––” He shakes his head. “You had me from the get-go. I was yours the minute you bulldozed your way into my life.”
November 12, 2018
Dammit, P. Dangelico does it again. I'm still salty over her last book with the cheating, but even that cant stop me from LOVING this one. Everything was perfect; the hero, heroine, and even the handling of the ex. This was very similar to Wrecking Ball, in that it had a grumpy hero that slowy becomes a cuddly teddy bear that will do anything for his heroine.
Theres not much more to say other than this book was a breathe of fresh air. With a long line of 2018 disappointments (with her previous book, Tiebreaker, being part of said line), I can gladly say that this met and exceeded my exceptions.
Theres not much more to say other than this book was a breathe of fresh air. With a long line of 2018 disappointments (with her previous book, Tiebreaker, being part of said line), I can gladly say that this met and exceeded my exceptions.
November 9, 2018
4.5 stars!!
I loved this one so much! This was the perfect blend of sexy, funny and swoon worthy feels! This is the 3rd book in the Hard to Love series but can be read as a complete standalone. This is Amanda's story. She is the sister of Cal from Wrecking Ball.
Let me just start off by saying this is probably the funniest book I've read from P. Dangelico. She really stepped up the humor element in this one. The scene where our hero and heroine first meet is seriously LOL epic and it justs gets better and better as the book goes on. I could not get enough!
So what can I say about Grant? Let's just say he definitely has issues and his first impression is that of a silent, brooding hero with a serious jerk complex. However, we'll excuse all that because WOW is he sexy! The sex appeal of this man leaps off the pages in every way and yes, drooling while reading is a thing. You will be happy to know our hero has an aversion to wearing clothes and as a well honed football player, he was quite comfortable in his skin. This man as it turns out is also kind, romantic and compassionate. Watching him interact with Amanda's son totally pulled on my heartstrings and seeing this giant of a man turn sweet and loving with Amanda just about melted my poor heart.
Amanda is a woman who has come a long way. She's made some mistakes in her past but she's turned her life around to make a better life for her son. I loved her sarcastic, witty humor! She was a kickass heroine with a fiery personality who would take nothing less than the best for herself or her son. She demanded that if Grant wanted to be in their lives, he would have to step it up and be all in or not at all.
Grant and Amanda have to work through some issues before they find their HEA but this is very low angst. If you're looking for a sexy, hilarious read with all around good feels then this one is for you!
4.5 Stars
Contemporary Sports Romance
Heat Level: Moderate
POV: Heroine
HEA
Follow me for your next comfort read!
I loved this one so much! This was the perfect blend of sexy, funny and swoon worthy feels! This is the 3rd book in the Hard to Love series but can be read as a complete standalone. This is Amanda's story. She is the sister of Cal from Wrecking Ball.
Let me just start off by saying this is probably the funniest book I've read from P. Dangelico. She really stepped up the humor element in this one. The scene where our hero and heroine first meet is seriously LOL epic and it justs gets better and better as the book goes on. I could not get enough!
So what can I say about Grant? Let's just say he definitely has issues and his first impression is that of a silent, brooding hero with a serious jerk complex. However, we'll excuse all that because WOW is he sexy! The sex appeal of this man leaps off the pages in every way and yes, drooling while reading is a thing. You will be happy to know our hero has an aversion to wearing clothes and as a well honed football player, he was quite comfortable in his skin. This man as it turns out is also kind, romantic and compassionate. Watching him interact with Amanda's son totally pulled on my heartstrings and seeing this giant of a man turn sweet and loving with Amanda just about melted my poor heart.
Amanda is a woman who has come a long way. She's made some mistakes in her past but she's turned her life around to make a better life for her son. I loved her sarcastic, witty humor! She was a kickass heroine with a fiery personality who would take nothing less than the best for herself or her son. She demanded that if Grant wanted to be in their lives, he would have to step it up and be all in or not at all.
Grant and Amanda have to work through some issues before they find their HEA but this is very low angst. If you're looking for a sexy, hilarious read with all around good feels then this one is for you!
4.5 Stars
Contemporary Sports Romance
Heat Level: Moderate
POV: Heroine
HEA
Follow me for your next comfort read!
December 2, 2018
Check out this and my other reviews at My Blog, Facebook, Google+, Twitter and Pinterest
Copy received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont. Romance
Series : - Third in the series.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 4.5 stars
★Review★
I have to be honest, I was nervous about Amanda being the heroine after book 1 (She is the hero from book 1 sister)
But I really liked her. She owned up to her previous issues and was trying her best.
Grant I really disliked as did Amanda to start with, and I was at the point of "seriously just ring your brother and get him chucked out of the house" when Bam, you are all of a sudden rooting for him. Your opinion of him begins to change as you realise how vulnerable and damaged he is.
I adore an enemies to lovers story, and a slow build too, and this was pure perfection, with two troubled characters, with hard pasts, who come to realise they don't hate each other and infact need each other.
And Grant with Sam!!! Swoon.....
However, I felt like I wanted to get to know Grant a bit more than we did. It felt like we barely scratched the surface with the grumpy, vulnerable complicated lovely ass hole man he is!
All in a great 4.5 stars. Almost a 5, i just wanted to know more of Grant.
Copy received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont. Romance
Series : - Third in the series.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 4.5 stars
★Review★
I have to be honest, I was nervous about Amanda being the heroine after book 1 (She is the hero from book 1 sister)
But I really liked her. She owned up to her previous issues and was trying her best.
Grant I really disliked as did Amanda to start with, and I was at the point of "seriously just ring your brother and get him chucked out of the house" when Bam, you are all of a sudden rooting for him. Your opinion of him begins to change as you realise how vulnerable and damaged he is.
I adore an enemies to lovers story, and a slow build too, and this was pure perfection, with two troubled characters, with hard pasts, who come to realise they don't hate each other and infact need each other.
And Grant with Sam!!! Swoon.....
However, I felt like I wanted to get to know Grant a bit more than we did. It felt like we barely scratched the surface with the grumpy, vulnerable complicated lovely ass hole man he is!
All in a great 4.5 stars. Almost a 5, i just wanted to know more of Grant.
October 27, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Loved Mandy, Grant and Sam!
Grant was initially a closed book, being quite aggravating and walking around in the nude!
Mandy has been through a lot but had turned her life around and was doing all she could for her and her son.
She couldn’t deny her attraction to Grant and eventually they get it together, not without a few tribulations along the way.
This was another slow burn romance with great heart and humour. Loved the epilogue!
Grant was initially a closed book, being quite aggravating and walking around in the nude!
Mandy has been through a lot but had turned her life around and was doing all she could for her and her son.
She couldn’t deny her attraction to Grant and eventually they get it together, not without a few tribulations along the way.
This was another slow burn romance with great heart and humour. Loved the epilogue!
November 28, 2018
Let's start this off with I LOVE THIS BOOK so there is no confusion because honestly I will ramble SO be prepared and warned!
This slow burn enemies to lovers troupe is my kryptonite.
But when is this deliciously well written with captivating characters you just have to love it.
And when I do that than I read it oh so slowly to soak it all up.
Mandy is amazing heroine. And don't take this too lightly. I am very choosy and judgy when comes to female characters in books. Hey that is my prerogative. It takes a lot to charm me. I like my woman to be strong. And that usually comes from past mistakes they learned from, from falling but still getting up, for fighting against all odds and she is all that. Flawed and bruised but you can bet your ass she is still determined more than ever to keep on going. She is a workoholic. She is amazing mother, caring friend and good sister. She is real.
She is my kind of person.
Oh Grant you perfectly imperfect you....you had me since the first naked moment. It is like Paola wrote this guy just for me ( except his blond hair, only blond guys I really fancy are Tom Hardy & Charlie Hunnam but that is different type of conversation) back to the subject....He is a hero I love to read about. That rough around edges that hides all the goodness inside. That guy who doesn't give affection easily but once you have his love he gives you the world. Guy who pays attention to the little things. Huge heart.
Oh well abs and muscles and hmmmm everything else doesn't hurt either.
Both of them think they don't deserve love. That makes this so much more joyful read when they get their happy end. And also a hopeful one.
Side note: Please check out Paola Dangelico Spotify playlist for this book. It is great.
This is very heart warming book with a lot of moments that seem so effortlessly well written. And all that mother-son moments make my heart melt.
There is also a lot of laugh out loud moments. Like that dance scene.
There is also that smack me in the head scene where I along with Sam learned what felching is?
Thanks Paola. Thanks very very much. I could live without knowing that. My Google search history too.
Whatever you do DO NOT LOOK IT UP. You are welcome. Orrrrrr you already know it...in that case you dirty dirty you.....
Anywho...there is a lot of wit in this book, a lot of steam, a lot of comfort.
But above all that I find a lot of hope.
There is something that touched me very deeply. Made me cry and laugh at the same time.
That part when Mandy realizes that life is lived in the now. That tomorrow for some never comes and all you best laid plans are not safe, no they are just convenient. Something just resonated with me with all that...you know that regret is a bitch who is better not provoked. It felt personal and it felt real. Sure we all know that no one is living in the fairy tale but it is nice to be inspired.
Another thing is that marking words that Mandy does in her Kindle. I do that too. Because English is not my first language I do it to learn...and because I love words.
See..this is my book...written just for me...just let me pretend and if you care about my opinion at all and you still are reading this review GO AND READ THIS BOOK!!!!!
I will annoy you to read it....you are warned...
Note to self ; I need this book in paperback
This slow burn enemies to lovers troupe is my kryptonite.
But when is this deliciously well written with captivating characters you just have to love it.
And when I do that than I read it oh so slowly to soak it all up.
Mandy is amazing heroine. And don't take this too lightly. I am very choosy and judgy when comes to female characters in books. Hey that is my prerogative. It takes a lot to charm me. I like my woman to be strong. And that usually comes from past mistakes they learned from, from falling but still getting up, for fighting against all odds and she is all that. Flawed and bruised but you can bet your ass she is still determined more than ever to keep on going. She is a workoholic. She is amazing mother, caring friend and good sister. She is real.
She is my kind of person.
Oh Grant you perfectly imperfect you....you had me since the first naked moment. It is like Paola wrote this guy just for me ( except his blond hair, only blond guys I really fancy are Tom Hardy & Charlie Hunnam but that is different type of conversation) back to the subject....He is a hero I love to read about. That rough around edges that hides all the goodness inside. That guy who doesn't give affection easily but once you have his love he gives you the world. Guy who pays attention to the little things. Huge heart.
Oh well abs and muscles and hmmmm everything else doesn't hurt either.
Both of them think they don't deserve love. That makes this so much more joyful read when they get their happy end. And also a hopeful one.
"I've made mistakes more than my share. But Grant? He's the right to all my wrongs."
Side note: Please check out Paola Dangelico Spotify playlist for this book. It is great.
This is very heart warming book with a lot of moments that seem so effortlessly well written. And all that mother-son moments make my heart melt.
There is also a lot of laugh out loud moments. Like that dance scene.
There is also that smack me in the head scene where I along with Sam learned what felching is?
Thanks Paola. Thanks very very much. I could live without knowing that. My Google search history too.
Whatever you do DO NOT LOOK IT UP. You are welcome. Orrrrrr you already know it...in that case you dirty dirty you.....
Anywho...there is a lot of wit in this book, a lot of steam, a lot of comfort.
But above all that I find a lot of hope.
There is something that touched me very deeply. Made me cry and laugh at the same time.
That part when Mandy realizes that life is lived in the now. That tomorrow for some never comes and all you best laid plans are not safe, no they are just convenient. Something just resonated with me with all that...you know that regret is a bitch who is better not provoked. It felt personal and it felt real. Sure we all know that no one is living in the fairy tale but it is nice to be inspired.
"Love isn’t finite. There’s no measure to it. It stretches time and space, loops back around, and expands again. Real love, the selfless kind, transcends our own needs but doesn’t leave us poorer, with less, it enriches us in ways we can’t even quantify…beyond our wildest dreams."
Another thing is that marking words that Mandy does in her Kindle. I do that too. Because English is not my first language I do it to learn...and because I love words.
See..this is my book...written just for me...just let me pretend and if you care about my opinion at all and you still are reading this review GO AND READ THIS BOOK!!!!!
I will annoy you to read it....you are warned...
"Emotional roller coasters are not an indication of how much someone loves you. Real love is steady. It’s supposed to make you feel safe. Not like you’re constantly dangling off a cliff, on a perpetual high from the spike of adrenaline."
Note to self ; I need this book in paperback
December 22, 2019
Spoilers ahead, 4.5*
My reviews are really lazy in the last few days 😂 maybe it's because I'm counting down to the holidays but anywho
This was my favorite in the series
Single parent h who is a recovering alcoholic
Football player H who's recovering from surgery
Enemies to friends to lovers
I'd have preferred he quit before being injured again but at least he'd planned to stop playing
h's ex returned but he caused drama with her custody of her son and not the relationship
Both have been celibate for years
H didn't appear to be a manwhore
h is a recovering alcoholic
No cheating
OW from women who hung on to the h and one he went to a show with but he wasn't interested
h went on date with OM but nothing happened
My reviews are really lazy in the last few days 😂 maybe it's because I'm counting down to the holidays but anywho
This was my favorite in the series
Single parent h who is a recovering alcoholic
Football player H who's recovering from surgery
Enemies to friends to lovers
I'd have preferred he quit before being injured again but at least he'd planned to stop playing
h's ex returned but he caused drama with her custody of her son and not the relationship
Both have been celibate for years
H didn't appear to be a manwhore
h is a recovering alcoholic
No cheating
OW from women who hung on to the h and one he went to a show with but he wasn't interested
h went on date with OM but nothing happened
November 18, 2018
Let me tell you something, I read about Amanda’s life little bit in Wrecking Ball and I wasn’t her fan at all!
So, when I found out she will get her own book, I wasn’t very enthusiastic, and I didn’t even ask P for an ARC, because I’m not sure if I want to read this book.
But after so many fantastic reviews on my timeline, hah! Look at me now, I couldn’t even make myself stop until I finished Amanda and Grant and Sam and Roxy’s story 😊.
What a lovely lovely read! 🥰
❤️❤️❤️
So, when I found out she will get her own book, I wasn’t very enthusiastic, and I didn’t even ask P for an ARC, because I’m not sure if I want to read this book.
But after so many fantastic reviews on my timeline, hah! Look at me now, I couldn’t even make myself stop until I finished Amanda and Grant and Sam and Roxy’s story 😊.
What a lovely lovely read! 🥰
❤️❤️❤️
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